Description
Spécial occasion Cherry Bars are a festive, buttery dessert featuring a rich base layered with luscious cherry pie filling. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, and cookie exchanges, these bars combine a tender, golden crust with bright, sweet cherry flavor for a crowd-pleasing treat that yields 24 servings.
Ingredients
Base Batter
- 1 cup softened butter
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
Filling
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using a mixer until light and fluffy. This creates a tender base texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate. Then blend in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this flour mixture to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, stirring until fully combined into a uniform batter.
- Assemble Layers: Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating a solid base layer. Then spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the batter. Finally, drop the remaining batter over the cherry filling in small clumps for a rustic top layer.
- Bake the Bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the batter comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into 24 squares for serving.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming.
- Do not overmix after adding flour to prevent dense bars.
- Cooling completely prevents the cherry filling from being too runny when cutting.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- These bars can be served with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
